This is why I think the recommendation should be focused on heart rate profiles rather than "running", which is bad for your joints. Let's be real here — the running is just a proxy for a sustained elevated heart rate + oxygenation + full body motion/engagement — so swimming or skipping would likely be a better trade off for your muscular/skeletal system over a lifetime; the problem is that they require "equipment" that's not always available.

Likewise, running in a heavily polluted environment (outdoors in a city) is probably far worse than all other cardio in a cleaner air environment (indoors with HVAC or around air filter).

[–] EditsHisComments@lemmy.world 3 points 1 day ago

That's why I advocate for elliptical machines if someone really wants to "run." Running isn't bad for you if you're wear proper shoes, have good form / posture, and run on soft ground. But many people don't do those and end up increasing their life expectancy but with terrible joints. Elliptical machines solve the issue by forcing your body to actually run properly but they eliminate the shocks that come with each step. And you're right - swimming is by far the best cardio anyone can do. Plus everyone needs to learn how to swim.

Sadly I can't do either for now, but hoping to by next Spring.

[–] baronvonj@lemmy.world 1 points 1 day ago

I've always and only ever heard doctors phrase their recommendation in terms of heart rate. The study here is announcing the result of what they tested. They didn't put mice on bikes or towers or ellipticals, so they couldn't really conclude about those options.